Country singer Walker Hayes surprises Richard Goodall with new car

Several years ago, someone named Craig provided Walker Hayes with a vehicle when he was having a tough time.

Now, through his “Be a Craig Fund,” the country music star is paying it forward so that others in similar situations can receive a car.

On Saturday, Hayes — whose hits include “Fancy Like” —made a surprise appearance at Richard Goodall’s community sendoff as the Vigo County School Corp. singing custodian prepares to leave for live rounds of America’s Got Talent.

Hayes gifted Goodall with a brand new Buick Encore GX from Fuson Automotive.

The two met during Hayes’ concert at The Mill earlier this year. That’s when the country music artist learned of Goodall’s success in America’s Got Talent and later saw a video of his inspiring performance.

Later, Hayes and his management team came up with the idea.

Working through Tim and Kelly Drake at The Mill Terre Haute, Hayes’ team connected with the Vigo County School Corp. to help facilitate the surprise.The new vehicle was purchased through Hayes’ foundation and the national charity Helping Hands.

In an interview after the program, Hayes said, “It just made sense. We love Richard. He is such a positive influence and very inspiring.”

Initially, “We didn’t know we’d get to give it to him in such a spectacular fashion,” before a crowd of hundreds as part of a community sendoff, Hayes said. “I knew Terre Haute was special when we played our show earlier this summer.”

He added, “I love seeing the town showing up to send him off and having his back.”